Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist and close ally of President Donald Trump, was fatally shot on Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University. He was 31.
At a university:
Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA and leader of America’s largest conservative youth movement, was addressing students as part of a nationwide speaking tour. He wore a white T-shirt with the word “Freedom” and sat under a tent while taking questions from the audience.
A gunshot, then panic:
According to witnesses, a gunshot rang out as Kirk answered a question about mass shootings. He collapsed with a neck wound as security rushed him onto a stretcher. Former Utah congressman Jason Chaffetz said panic spread quickly as the crowd screamed and fled.
Manhunt continues:
Officials said the shooter fired from a rooftop overlooking the courtyard. The FBI and state police launched a manhunt, recovering a rifle in nearby woodland. Two men were briefly detained, though neither was tied to the killing.
Trump confirms death:
Trump first announced Kirk’s death on Truth Social, calling him “great and legendary”. Vice President Kamala Harris also condemned the violence, stressing that “political violence has no place in America.”
Crackdown pledge:
In a televised address, Trump blamed “radical left” rhetoric for fuelling the attack and vowed to pursue those he accused of contributing to political violence.